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Zion · April

Zion in April

April is the busiest time to visit Zion — busier than March, quieter than May.

Expect peak crowds (9/10), highs near 74°F, about 13.2 hours of daylight, and 1 seasonal closure in effect.

Crowd score

How busy it gets

9/10
Peak

The park's busiest time. Reservations, early starts, and patience recommended.

About 86% of this park's busiest month.

Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025

Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Oct 2026 · alerts checked Oct 18, 2026. How this is calculated →

Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe

Visitation

Typical April visits vs. the year

April (typical)461,695
Peak — July534,594
Quietest — January218,698

April draws about 10% of Zion’s yearly visitors.

Typical monthly recreation visits, averaged over the most recent three full years.

Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025

Weather

April weather

Avg high
74°F
Avg low
46°F
Precipitation
1.3"
Sunrise
4:56 AM
Sunset
6:07 PM
Daylight
13.2h

Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, Zion NP

What's open

Zion in April: access

Open 24 hours daily; shuttle required in the canyon most of the year

Seasonal closures may apply:

  • Park Closure

    Watchman Trail closed

    The Watchman Trail is closed pending repairs.

Source: NPS Data API

Conditions

Current alerts

  • Information

    Please park legally and responsibly

    Zion has limited parking. Once parking spaces in Zion are full, visitors should park in Springdale. Please park only in designated spaces. Vehicles parked outside of designated spaces are subject to citation and towing.

    Details on nps.gov →
  • Information

    Angels Landing Pilot Permit Program

    All hikers need a permit to hike Angels Landing. Learn why you need a permit and how to get one using the link below.

    Details on nps.gov →
  • Caution

    Toxic cyanobacteria in rivers, streams, and pools

    Do not submerge your head in or drink instream water in Zion National Park.

    Details on nps.gov →
  • Caution

    Large vehicle restrictions on Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway

    Vehicles that exceed length, width, height, or weight limits cannot travel between Canyon Junction and the park's East Entrance. See the current limits on the page linked below.

    Details on nps.gov →

Source: NPS Data API

Context

Zion crowds across the year

January: 5/10 crowdJanFebruary: 5/10 crowdFebMarch: 8/10 crowdMarApril: 9/10 crowd9AprMay: 10/10 crowdMayJune: 10/10 crowdJunJuly: 10/10 crowdJulAugust: 10/10 crowdAugSeptember: 10/10 crowdSepOctober: 9/10 crowdOctNovember: 6/10 crowdNovDecember: 5/10 crowdDec

Alternatives

Quieter nearby in April

FAQ

Zion in April

How busy is Zion in April?

April rates 9/10 for crowds (Peak) at Zion National Park — about 86% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 461,695.

What is the weather like at Zion in April?

In April, Zion averages a high of 74°F and a low of 46°F, with about 1.3 inches of precipitation.

How much does it cost to visit Zion?

Entrance to Zion costs $35 ($35 per private vehicle, valid 7 days).

Do I need a reservation to visit Zion in April?

A reservation may be required: Angels Landing Pilot Permit Program. All hikers need a permit to hike Angels Landing. Learn why you need a permit and how to get one using the link below. Confirm current requirements on nps.gov before you visit.

When is Zion least crowded?

Zion is quietest in January and February. If your dates are flexible, those months bring the thinnest crowds of the year.

How many hours of daylight does Zion get in April?

In mid-April, Zion gets about 13.2 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 4:56 AM and sunset around 6:07 PM.